Regular system backup utility use can help save your files and greatly reduce the time needed to get running again after a catastrophic system event. Malware and hardware failure can wreck havoc on your data, but Windows 7's built-in System Backup Utility can minimize the damage if properly configured. Windows 7 offers an improved backup utility experience over previous Windows iterations.

Backup

Running a system backup creates an exact replica of the entire hard drive Windows 7 is installed on. The replica of the hard drive is referred to as a system image. A system image can be used to phase back the Windows installation and every document stored on the hard drive or to relocate the contents of the hard drive to another hard drive. Applying a system backup is like flipping the switch on a time machine and reverting the entire computer to the old version. This means any updates to any files and any new files added to the computer will be lost.

Configure Backup

You can configure the system backup by opening the "Control Panel," selecting the "System and Security" menu and choosing the "Backup and Restore" option. To create a system backup, choose the "Set up Backup" option, a destination drive for the backup and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process. If you want to access that backup through Windows, choose the "Select another backup to restore files from" and follow the on-screen instructions. If you're unable to load Windows and want to use a system backup, connect the device containing the backup to the computer and boot to the Windows 7 installation disc. Select a language at the splash screen and click the "Repair your computer" option. Follow the on-screen instructions to apply the system backup.

System Restore

Window's 7's backup utility also enables you to phase back vital system files through the restore system settings option. This option will automatically save several Windows configuration settings every time you install a program, remove a program or run a program update. Restore doesn't create a backup of your computer but enables you to revert the state of Windows itself to take back any changes that have caused errors in Windows. This process can also break some malware's hold on your computer. The "Recover system settings on your computer" option can be found on the "Backup and Restore" menu.

Backup Tips

Microsoft recommends using an external hard drive when performing a system backup. Unless the backup is being performed after the first boot into Windows 7 on a new computer, writable media like DVD-R and BD-R may become unwieldy and require dozens of discs. You can use the System Restore option first if you encounter a problem to try to protect any recent file changes.

About the Author

Dan Stone started writing professionally in 2006, specializing in education, technology and music. He is a web developer for a communications company and previously worked in television. Stone received a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and a Master of Arts in communication studies from Northern Illinois University.